10 tips for getting the most from a wedding show

The dreaming and, perhaps, the drama have begun.Many couples got engaged over the holidays and now it's time to plan their summer nuptials.Yes, the wedding show season is upon us, with shopping for a gown and a tux — or two gowns or two tuxes — and so much more.The first test of a marriage often comes before the couple even say "I do," because a nice wedding takes a lot of work.People need to consider the venue and whether they need the help of a wedding planner, a photographer, a caterer, a cake baker, a pianist, a florist, a DJ and a jeweler.You can pick up some great ideas or even book some help at wedding shows right here in Snohomish County.The Northwest Bridal Showcase continues from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Tulalip Resort and Casino, 10200 Quilceda Blvd. The Everett-Lynnwood Wedding Expo, put on by Brides Club, will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 25 and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 26 at Comcast Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave., Everett. Another one to look for is the Snohomish Wedding Tour on June 1.Maris Events wedding planners Alissa Lawton of Mill Creek and Meredith Geffert of Seattle are wedding show veterans. They offer the following suggestions on how to approach a wedding show, which can be downright overwhelming. Even so, wedding shows are a good place to meet a lot of vendors instead of making individual appointments."If you are well into your planning process, you should go to scout out vendors who offer what you still need to nail down," Lawton said. "If you are just getting started, just roam around the show to get some inspiration."10 tips from the experts:1. Sundays are better days to attend a wedding show.2. Talk with the photographers and wedding planners first. Be sure you feel comfortable with them before booking. These people will be a big part of the success of your wedding day. Photographers get booked fast.3. If you are on a tighter budget, ask wedding planners whether they are willing to do day-of coordination. Bring along a basic outline of your wedding plans4. Collect business cards and goody bags, but also take good notes. You will need the notes to remember what you saw and who you met.5. What's hot in themes, color schemes and decor will be evident throughout the show. Take more notes.6. Bring your mom or your maid of honor, but bring somebody along. Don't bring a hungry fiance, however. Too many wedding cake samples can make a guy sick.7. On the other hand, you should eat at all the cake samples you can. Take notes.8. Bring a checkbook, if possible. Some vendors offer wedding show discounts. If you are ready to book, do it.9. Same-sex couples should make sure vendors are happy and ready to help with their weddings.10. Have fun and just breathe.Learn more

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